Midday Music: Meet the Musician – The Cathedral School

How long have the children been getting ready for this concert?

“We've been rehearsing for this since January, though for some of our groups that is only 20 minutes a week.  For me, this is one of the most important dates in our school's musical year and we love the opportunity to showcase the best of what we can do.

“We've been lucky enough to be invited to give a Lunchtime Concert at the Cathedral for at least the last 15 years. Our choirs, orchestra and music group rehearse nearly every week, and we have lots of other concerts and services to prepare for too, especially around Christmas.”

Does it feel important to celebrate the connection between the school and the Cathedral? 

“Lots of parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles and family friends come to watch our Lunchtime Concert and we feel very well supported by them and by the Cathedral. 

“Emma Gibbins, the Cathedral's Director of Music, will be playing the piano for the choir and orchestra items.”

Will it be the choir singing, as well as musical performances this year?

“There will be lots of choir items, in fact, our choirs do most of the work in this concert. All children who want to are welcome to join our choirs. There will also be instrumentalists both in groups and as soloists. We are bringing about 90 children to perform this time.”

How did you decide on your programme?

“I don't want to give anything away, but you will hear some well-known items as well as some that will be new to you.  I had in mind the theme of remembering that even though people look different from one another or might like different things or not agree about everything, we are all one in our world, so you will hear some songs that reflect that. An important theme in our world at the moment, I think.”

The Lunchtime Concert will begin at midday on 4 July with tea and coffee served from 11.30am.